It takes an extraordinary figure to unite Republicans and Democrats on a single resolution — and Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the convicted FTX founder, is that figure.
Republican Senator Cynthia Lummis and Democratic Senator Rubén Gallego on Wednesday (June 17) introduced a resolution that takes a clear stance: the convicted SBF should receive no presidential pardon, commutation, or any form of federal clemency. The move comes after SBF formally submitted a clemency petition to the Justice Department's Office of the Pardon Attorney on June 8.
Lummis Fires: He Stole Billions, Didn't Lose Them
Cynthia Lummis did not mince words. She argued that SBF didn't merely "lose" billions of dollars belonging to customers — he misappropriated those funds to bankroll his lavish lifestyle. Now he seeks a presidential pardon to escape the consequences. "SBF should try something new — learn to take responsibility," she said. She emphasized that SBF had his day in court, the jury didn't buy his excuses, and the judge handed down a 25-year sentence for good reason.
Gallego Adds: Claiming Persecution Is a Joke
Democratic Senator Rubén Gallego was equally blunt. He criticized SBF for showing no remorse and instead absurdly portraying himself as a victim of "lawfare." Gallego called it "a joke." He maintained that the 25-year sentence "serves justice" and is not the result of an unfair investigation.
The four-page resolution explicitly states that SBF should not receive executive clemency under any circumstances. However, the resolution is non-binding — it serves more as a collective statement from lawmakers. The ultimate decision rests with the White House, which has shown no inclination to grant clemency.
When pressed on the possibility of a SBF pardon, White House press secretary pointed back to President Trump's January remarks — at that time, Trump said he had no plans to pardon SBF. That effectively blocks SBF's path to clemency.
SBF's clemency petition, filed on June 8, is a "post-service" request, meaning he seeks a pardon after serving his sentence, not immediate release. The petition is listed as "pending review," but given the bipartisan opposition and White House's stance, its prospects are dim.
The rare bipartisan display underscores how deeply the largest fraud in crypto history still resonates with the public. SBF has tried to cast himself as a target of political persecution, but Congress appears unified in rejecting that narrative.